The Best Times to Buy a New iPad Every Year

The Apple iPad reigns supreme in the tablet world, boasting unparalleled versatility and features. It's a dream machine for artists, a note-taking powerhouse for students, and even a capable laptop replacement with the right accessories. The possibilities are truly limitless. This premium device, however, comes with a premium price tag. Fortunately, there are several prime opportunities throughout the year to snag an iPad at a significant discount.

Waiting for major holidays and sales events can yield savings of up to 50% on a brand-new iPad. Knowing when to buy can be tricky, so we've compiled the best times to score an iPad deal, simplifying your shopping journey. As we approach the exciting sales events of 2025, keep your eyes peeled for incredible Apple iPad deals!

Best Times to Buy an iPad

When New Models Release

The absolute best time to buy an iPad is when new models launch. Retailers typically stock two iPad generations simultaneously, often deeply discounting older models to make room for the newest releases. This means significant savings on iPads, iPad Airs, and even iPad Pros, shortly before or after a new generation arrives.

Timing is crucial, however. Different iPad models have staggered release dates, so focus on the specific model you want. Don't expect iPad Pro discounts when a new iPad Air launches. The recent releases of the new iPad and iPad Air mean that previous generations should see price drops soon.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Black Friday is another fantastic opportunity. Online giants like Amazon typically offer impressive iPad deals, sometimes even on the latest models. Expect a mix of limited-time flash sales and longer-running promotions. We've already seen early Black Friday deals on the 2021 9th Gen iPad. As Cyber Monday approaches, anticipate bonus offers from Apple, likely including free Apple gift cards with new iPad purchases.

New Year's

The New Year period is another excellent time to buy. Retailers often clear out leftover holiday inventory, resulting in substantial discounts on iPads. While significant discounts on the latest models are less common, older generations frequently see price cuts of up to 60%. If you miss the holiday sales, this is a strong alternative.

Amazon Prime Day

While not as consistently lucrative as Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day still offers solid iPad deals. Amazon regularly discounts various iPad models during its two-day event, making it a reliable time to find a good deal. Even the newest models sometimes receive discounts, though the savings might be less dramatic. Prime Day typically occurs in mid-July (Tuesday and Wednesday) and might feature a second event in October in 2025.

Back to School Promotions

August, the back-to-school season, often brings significant iPad discounts. Given the popularity of iPads among students, Apple frequently offers promotions for a few weeks leading up to the school year. Students can often access exclusive discounts for even greater savings.

While the timing might not be ideal for everyone, the savings are substantial. Last year's promotions included a free $100 gift card with select iPad Pro purchases; expect similar or comparable offers in 2025, potentially combined with Labor Day sales.

New iPads Available in 2025

Apple recently released updated iPad models in 2024 and 2025. The latest releases include the M3 iPad Air (starting at $599) and the 11th-generation iPad (starting at $349). These are iterative updates rather than complete overhauls, but they offer enhanced performance compared to their predecessors, making them compelling choices for potential buyers.